After just a three-week off-season, the U13 girls kicked off their indoor campaign in style yesterday. Captain Izzy won an extended game of rock, paper, scissors and elected to bowl. Throwing the ball to Georgia to open was an inspired decision, she struck immediately, clean bowling Whitchurch’s opener for a platinum duck.

That early wicket set the tone for the rest of the innings. Tight, disciplined bowling and sharp fielding restricted WCC to just 38 all out from 7.2 overs. Izzy, Maggie, and Georgia all taking wickets, while Jemima returned standout figures of 2 for 5.

A special mention goes to Florence, who stepped up to cover an injury — she bowled an excellent over, all with her trademark smile.

A big highlight was Emilia’s debut behind the stumps; she looked completely natural, making a string of impressive stops from some rapid bowling. Brilliant work, Emilia!

FCC set 39 for the win, while not a big target there were some nerves amongst the girls, but there really didn’t need to be. Eleanor and Izzy opened the batting and made light work of the target, reaching it inside four overs without looking troubled, including a cracking six from Els. The only real danger was to the umpire at square leg, as both openers showed a fondness for hammering the ball in that direction! With Eleanor unintentionally dominating the strike, she finished on 20* and Izzy on 13*.

With the win secured, the teams agreed to play on. With Els retiring Georgia joined Izzy at the crease, and the pair scored freely — both treating the spectators to some lovely, expansive shots and Georgia also joined the ‘hammer it at the square leg umpire club’.

Having the nets for an hour beforehand always pays dividends— great call, Ian. But what really stands out about this team is their spirit. This new team came together really well under Izzy's leadership, they supported each other superbly, played with smiles on their faces, and competed in exactly the right way.

Well done, girls — a fantastic start to the indoor season!

Match Report - Will Thompson